New thermal management technique for PV module using Mist/PCM/Husk: An experimental study
New thermal management technique for PV module using Mist/PCM/Husk: An experimental study
Researcher Name: Associate Prof. Dr. Zafar Said
The project, ‘New Thermal Management Technique for PV Module Using Mist/PCM/Husk: An Experimental
Study,’ conducted in Sharjah, UAE, acquires heightened relevance in the wake of COP28 and aligns
with the UAE’s Energy Vision. This study investigates a novel mist/fog-based water cooling system for
photovoltaic (PV) modules in extreme heat conditions. Its primary goal is to evaluate this cooling system’s
performance enhancements and potential benefits on PV modules, including temperature reduction,
increased electrical power output, and uniform surface temperature maintenance to counteract thermal
stress and hot spot formation. Inspired by the increasing global shift towards renewable energy sources
and the need to improve the performance of PV systems in hot climates, this project explores innovative
cooling techniques. The focus is on developing a sustainable, efficient, and water-conserving mist/fog
based cooling method, responding to the limitations of existing cooling solutions. The research has led
to two significant publications in high-impact journals. Article 1 details the experimental performance
of a closed-loop mist/fog cooling system, demonstrating a temperature reduction of up to 34.25% and
a consequent increase in power output. This system effectively prevents thermal stress and maintains
a consistent temperature profile across the PV module. Article 2 presents an innovative approach that
combines passive and active mist cooling, using environmentally friendly materials like paraffin wax and
coconut husk. It evaluates different configurations, with the hybrid cooling method (PV-PCM with mist
cooling) showing the most efficiency, improving panel power by 0.32%. This study’s findings are highly
relevant to the themes and discussions of COP28, particularly in the context of sustainable energy
solutions and carbon emission reduction. The project supports the UAE’s strategy to develop renewable
energy for sustainable growth, showcasing the country’s commitment to sustainable energy transition
as outlined in its Energy Strategy 2050.
